Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

IUI stands for "intrauterine insemination", a process where processed sperm is inserted directly into the uterus to aid fertilisation.

The IUI process at Cada involves several key steps:

1. Fertility Check: Our comprehensive fertility analysis encompasses techniques like ultrasound, semen analysis, and diagnostic blood tests. Employing cutting-edge laboratory technology, we deliver optimal outcomes, laying the foundation for your treatment plan.

2. Kick-Off IUI: IUI can be performed during a natural menstrual cycle or a medically stimulated cycle. For the latter, medications may be prescribed to encourage egg production.

3. Ultrasound and ovulation: If you are taking medication for egg maturation, we will conduct regular ultrasound examinations to monitor egg development. Ovulation will then be induced at the optimal time for insemination. In natural cycles, ovulation timing is determined using an ovulation test.

4. Insemination: The partner sperm, prepared and selected for optimal health, are introduced into the uterus through a slender catheter, coinciding with the release of eggs. A pregnancy test is scheduled two weeks post-insemination to check for successful fertilisation.

While individual criteria may vary, general requirements for IUI include:

1. Diagnosis of infertility: To understand the causes, a precise diagnosis of infertility is necessary.

2. Health of the uterus: The uterus must be in a healthy condition and receptive to a possible pregnancy.

3. Ovarian reserve: Ideally, the female partner should have a sufficient egg reserve, especially if she is younger than 35.

4. Holistic health: The general health of the woman and her partner affects holistic health and therefore plays a major role.

5. Sperm quality: The quality of the sperm, whether from the partner or the donor, plays a decisive role.

Our fertility specialists will be happy to advise you individually in an initial consultation.

The success rate for IUI varies, averaging between 10-20% per cycle. Factors such as the woman’s age and the specific infertility causes influence these rates. Our specialists can provide a personalised success rate estimation during your consultation.

As IUI is minimally invasive and therefore less complex than IVF, the costs are also lower. On average, an IUI treatment including medication, consultation, examinations, etc. costs between CHF 1,000 and 1,500. At Cada, we focus on cost transparency and offer a fixed price for IUI treatment. This price includes all costs, pregnancy tests, consultations and analyses. This means that our patients know from the outset what costs they will incur and can go through their fertility treatment with peace of mind. For detailed information on our prices and financing options, we will be happy to advise you during an initial consultation.

IUI treatment is usually considered when couples have minimal fertility restrictions and are looking for their first treatment option. This is particularly relevant if the sperm count is low or the quality of the sperm is very poor. In addition, IUI can be considered as a supportive measure for pregnancy in cases of physical limitations or existing health problems.

Not necessarily. It depends on whether the IUI is performed with or without prior ovarian stimulation. Ovarian stimulation is often performed to promote egg growth. Drugs such as clomiphene, letrozole or gonadotropins are used for this purpose. These medications contribute to egg maturation. The exact medication plan depends on the woman's individual situation and will be determined by your doctor at Cada.

There is no clear age limit for IUI, but it is usually recommended for women under 40. Older women can consider the treatment if they are healthy. Our specialists will be happy to assess your individual circumstances and make a recommendation.

An IUI treatment takes about two to four weeks. The process may begin with ovarian stimulation over 7-10 days, followed by monitoring of egg maturation, which takes about a week. Ovulation is triggered by hormone administration, around 36 hours before the IUI. Sperm preparation takes a few hours and the IUI procedure itself only takes a few minutes. A pregnancy test can be carried out around two weeks after the IUI. As the timeframes vary depending on the individual treatment plan, it is important to discuss the exact timing with your doctor.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) are both assisted reproduction methods. IUI involves the insertion of sperm into the uterus, while IVF involves fertilization outside the body. IUI is less invasive, while IVF requires more steps and laboratory work.

Yes, the entire IUI procedure, from initial consultations and tests to the insemination itself, is conducted on-site at Cada. Our integrated approach ensures that you have access to our specialists and lab services throughout your treatment, with the convenience of accessing test results and treatment plans via the Cada app.